If you've ever dreamt of escaping to a serene haven, surrounded by
raw, untouched wilderness, this New Zealand cabin might be exactly what you’re
looking for. Nestled in Punakaiki on New Zealand’s West Coast, this
architecturally-designed retreat is not only a sight to behold but a
masterclass in simplicity and functionality. Bryce Langston, host of the
popular YouTube channel Living Big in a Tiny House, recently met with
Andrew, the proud owner of this unique property, to explore the intricate
design and inspiring story behind it.
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| Image: Bryce Langston |
A Vision Brought to Life
Andrew greets Bryce with warmth, introducing him to what he fondly
calls “Biv”—a compact yet stunning cabin carefully crafted through a
collaboration between Andrew, his architect brother Mark, and a local
architectural team. The cabin’s minimalist aesthetic immediately catches
Bryce’s eye, and he’s keen to know more about the design philosophy. As Andrew
explains, the inspiration stems from the rugged miners' huts that once dotted
the West Coast landscape. Characterized by corrugated iron, simple structures,
and steep chimneys, these miners’ huts influenced Mark’s approach. “He modeled
it after the miners’ huts—no spouting, no curtains, and minimal storage,”
Andrew explains.
Mark, who designed the cabin, shares his perspective: “In New
Zealand, single houses are the purest form of architecture to many architects.
This cabin was an opportunity to connect with the land and create a side income
while honoring the aesthetic simplicity.”
A Scenic Haven: Punakaiki's Remote Beauty
The cabin’s location is as much a part of the experience as the
cabin itself. Situated in Punakaiki, halfway between Greymouth to the south and
Westport to the north, the area is remote, breathtakingly beautiful, and
sparsely populated. As Andrew points out, Punakaiki is famous for its
"Pancake Rocks"—limestone formations that have been naturally
sculpted over millions of years to resemble stacks of pancakes. Moreover, the
area is close to Paparoa National Park, home to one of New Zealand’s ten
"Great Walks," enhancing the appeal of this cabin as a nature lover’s
paradise.
Materials and Design Choices: A Harmonious Blend with Nature
Constructed with durable, weather-resistant materials, the cabin
seamlessly merges with its environment. The exterior features aluminum tray
cladding and cedar wood accents, with no guttering to interrupt the natural
drainage. Bryce admires the striking visual effect of the cabin, noting how the
materials give it a clean, sophisticated appearance.
Inside, the aesthetic remains minimalist. The polished concrete
floors and solid timber walls impart a rustic, elemental feel to the space.
Cross-laminated timber (CLT) walls provide a unique construction touch, crafted
with three layers of timber in the walls and five layers for the roof. Built
offsite and precisely cut, the walls were assembled on location within two
days. This sturdy structure, nearly 30 centimeters thick in some areas, makes
the cabin super-insulated and durable—ideal for a place exposed to West Coast’s
harsh winds and sea spray.
Ingenious Use of Space: Compact, Yet Spacious
Though the cabin measures only 46 square meters, it feels far more
spacious due to clever architectural choices. A steeply sloped roof creates a
dramatic entrance, and ample glazing opens the home to stunning, treehouse-like
views over the surrounding wilderness. As Bryce comments, “With all of this
glazing, it allows you to take full advantage of the views.”
The cabin includes a mezzanine level with a large skylight,
allowing stargazing on clear nights. The lounge area, outfitted with a cozy
leather couch and a wood stove, offers a perfect spot to unwind after a day of
exploring. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in natural light, while details like
Andrew’s retro family rug—a replica of his grandparents' rug—add a charming,
personal touch. “It’s those family ties that make this place all the more
meaningful,” Bryce notes.
Functional Simplicity in the Kitchen and Bedroom
The kitchen is modest but well-designed, with dark cabinetry that
blends into the rest of the home’s aesthetic. Andrew explains that the cabin’s
storage is kept minimal to prevent clutter—a philosophy he finds freeing. “The
storage just stops us from bringing in too much junk; it keeps everything
simple and functional,” he says.
The bedroom is a serene retreat, with a sloping ceiling and an
oversized window framing views of the lush surroundings. Minimal framing around
the glass intensifies the feeling of sleeping amidst nature. By keeping the
bed’s frame low to the ground, they maintained a seamless view of the outdoors
without obstructing the sense of space.
Luxurious Touches in the Bathroom: A Natural Oasis
The bathroom, while simple, exudes a luxurious feel. Dark tiles
create a cave-like ambiance, while the large window bathes the room in green
light from the forest outside. A generous bathtub overlooks the lush nikau
palms, allowing guests to relax while fully immersed in nature. Subtle lighting
enhances the mood, turning the space into an intimate haven.
A Family’s Tribute to History
The cabin holds deep sentimental value for Andrew and his family.
Growing up on the West Coast, Andrew’s family has long-standing ties to the
land. His brother Mark, who has spent years overseas working as an architect,
wanted to build something meaningful on New Zealand soil. “This cabin is a
connection to our family history on the coast, something lasting for future
generations,” says Andrew. Mark adds, “Despite working on large-scale projects
worldwide, this has been the most rewarding project. Each detail is personal,
and the result is incredibly satisfying.”
Challenges and Costs: An Investment in Legacy
Building in a remote location like Punakaiki is no easy feat. The
cabin required special structural support, including ten steel-reinforced
concrete piles to anchor the building on uneven ground. The cost of the build
came in at approximately USD 365,000—a hefty price tag, but Andrew sees it as a
small investment for a family retreat meant to last generations.
A Resilient Retreat for a Modern World
This incredible cabin stands as a testament to minimalist design,
craftsmanship, and the bond between family and land. After the whirlwind of
building, Andrew and his family now have a tranquil escape to enjoy together—a
place where they can disconnect from the chaos of modern life. As Bryce
concludes, “In a world where we’re constantly bombarded by stress, having a
place like this to recharge is invaluable.”
This Punakaiki cabin isn’t just a house; it’s a legacy, an
architectural marvel, and a cherished retreat that will bring Andrew’s family
joy for years to come. In its simplicity, it achieves a kind of grandeur that
reminds us of the beauty and serenity that nature has to offer.
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